From Plants To The Hive
Plants produce resins in order to protect the growth of new shoots and young buds - areas that are exposed to infection.
These resins form a protective barrier that contain antibacterial properties to keep plants healthy.
Bees gather this resin and mix it with enzymes and wax to produce propolis. Propolis is primarily made up of resins and vegetable balsams (50%), wax (30%), essential oils (10%), and pollens (5%).
It has a number of uses within the hive however the most important is the role it plays in sterilising and sealing the hive, protecting it from bacterial, viral and fungal infections.
Propolis is gathered from the hive, by using propolis mats - it is then cleaned and powdered for use in tinctures, tablets, and
throat sprays.
Hippocrates, Bioflavonoids and You
The benefits of propolis in therapeutic use has been recorded for thousands of years; Doctors in ancient Rome used propolis as coatings on bandages
to aid in the sterilisation of wounds. Hippocrates (460 - 377 B.C) used propolis internally to help heal ulcers and externally as a salve, to treat wounds and sores.
Modern studies have shown that propolis contains many antioxidants, including terpenes and bioflavonoids, as well as cinnamic, phenolic, and caffeic acids.
Various studies have shown that anti-oxidants have the potential to:
Promote eye health
Keep the immune system in good shape, or boost the immune system when it has been compromised
Prevent age-related decline of the brain and nervous system
Prevent DNA damage and therefore have anti-carcinogenic effects
Promote cardiovascular health and help prevent artherosclerosis, heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases.
An Ally To Your Wellbeing
Propolis also has natural antibiotic effects and various studies have shown that it can inhibit the growth of strep and staph infections.
Because of its antibiotic properties and immune boosting effect you will find that propolis is a great aid in warding off colds, flus and sore throats.
There are also benefits to the digestive system with a recent study showing that Propolis can improve the digestion and the utilisation of calcium, magnesium and iron.
The benefits of this are stronger healthier bones and more energy through better oxygen uptake in the bloodstream.
Taken as part of a balanced diet, propolis can give you an extra boost when fighting or recovering from illness and give you an extra sense of well being.
Spray and Capsules
To make the most of this natural ally, we have Natures Nectar Propolis Capsules and Natures Nectar Propolis Throat Spray.
Our Propolis Capsules contain 425mg of propolis. Taking one or two capsules a day is a convenient way to take advantage of the benefits propolis has to offer.
The Propolis Throat spray combines the power of propolis with a blend of oils including peppermint and myrhh. The result is soothing
spray that freshens the breath and soothes the throat.
Do not take Natures Nectar Propolis Capsules or use Natures Nectar Throat Spray if you have a known allergy to propolis or
other bee products. Capsules and Throat spray are not a replacement for medical care, for serious medical concerns, please see
your doctor.